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Barca track Athirson

By Mark Kendall

Last Updated: 01/01/70 1:00am

CATALAN giants Barcelona are being linked with a move for Brazilian wing back Athirson who currently plays for Flamengo.

The left-sided defender has previously been mentioned in connection with Premiership side Manchester United, but according to reports in South America, Barca now have&nbsp;the former Juve&nbsp;man&nbsp;in their sights.

Louis van Gaal's side have struggled to adequately fill the left-sided defensive berth in their squad since stalwart Sergi left to join Atletico Madrid in the summer.

Their need has become more pressing in recent times after youngster Fernando Navarro, who had been occupying the position, sustained an injury.

The Athirson link has been given more credence after Brazilian Geovanni left the Camp Nou to move to Benfica on loan, thus enabling Barca to pick up another non-EU player.